Oasis Academy Oldham, located in Greater Manchester, has undergone significant improvements since its last inspection, achieving an overall effectiveness rating of good. The school, which serves a diverse community, has raised its expectations and ambitions for its pupils, resulting in positive responses from students. Most pupils achieve well across various subjects and take pride in their school environment. The school fosters a culture of safety and happiness, where students build positive relationships with peers and staff.
Pupil behavior is commendable, with students understanding the expectations set for them and valuing the rewards for their efforts. When behavior falls short of these expectations, staff address issues promptly. Attendance rates are generally good, and many pupils have taken on leadership roles, contributing to school decision-making processes. For instance, students influenced the policy regarding wearing sports kits on physical education days. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, encouraging participation in sports and creative pursuits, which helps students develop their interests and talents.
The curriculum at Oasis Academy Oldham has been significantly enhanced with the support of the Oasis Community Learning trust. The school aims to provide an aspirational education for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. A growing number of students are opting to study the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects in key stage four. The curriculum is generally well-structured, with important knowledge organized effectively. Opportunities for cultural learning are integrated into the curriculum, allowing pupils to explore diverse perspectives.
However, some subjects have experienced frequent changes in curriculum content and structure, which can hinder the development of a secure body of knowledge over time. This has led to uneven learning experiences for some pupils. While most teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge and effectively explain concepts, there are instances where assessment strategies are not consistently applied, resulting in gaps in pupils' understanding. The school is aware of these challenges and is working to ensure that teachers are equipped to identify and address misconceptions.
The school has prioritized reading, swiftly identifying gaps in pupils' reading knowledge and providing targeted support to help them become confident readers. A strong reading culture is evident throughout the school. The updated behavior system is implemented consistently, and strategies to improve attendance have been successful. The school continues to support pupils facing challenges, including mental health issues, to ensure they can attend school regularly.
Personal, social, and health education is a key focus, equipping pupils with essential knowledge for life in modern Britain. This includes lessons on personal safety, financial management, and career preparation. Leaders at the school, including trustees, have a clear understanding of the school's priorities and provide appropriate support and challenge. Staff report feeling well-supported in managing their workloads, with careful consideration given to the distribution of work throughout the academic year.
The safeguarding arrangements at Oasis Academy Oldham are effective, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pupils. The school is committed to continuous improvement and is actively addressing areas where further development is needed, particularly in ensuring that all teachers effectively use assessment strategies to support pupil learning. Overall, Oasis Academy Oldham is making significant strides in providing a high-quality education for its students, fostering an environment where they can thrive academically and personally.
